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5 things we learned from Michigan Football’s win over East Carolina

By Chris Peterson

Sep 2, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) passes in the first half against the East Carolina Pirates at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 2, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) passes in the first half against the East Carolina Pirates at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Syndication: Detroit Free Press
Syndication: Detroit Free Press /

The defense was great with one exception

Michigan football didn’t give up any points until the final seconds as East Carolina kicked a field goal on the final play of the game to avoid a shutout.

The Wolverines forced a turnover, which Mike Sainristil was responsible for after a first-quarter interception. Josh Wallace also had an interception, but it was overturned.

Both veteran cornerbacks played well. Michigan football didn’t play Rod Moore or Will Johnson. U-M was cautious with injuries but the defensive front dominated, at least against the run.

Michigan didn’t get any sacks, but part of that was ECU getting the ball out quickly. The Pirates averaged just 4.5 yards per pass attempt, which is a number the Wolverines will take every single week.

East Carolina didn’t have a single explosive play in the entire game (over 20 yards). QB Mason Garcia was the leading rusher and the Pirates averaged just 3.9 yards per attempt.

I remember similar questions last season. The pass rush should be better and despite zero sacks on Saturday, I still believe it will be.

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